Bringing people together
Yuba-sutter Pow Wow shares culture, dance, art
Performers, artists and spectators gathered at the 37th annual Yuba-sutter Pow Wow to experience and learn about Native American culture.
The Pow Wow was an intertribal get together that showcased performances from dancers, singers and drummers while many people enjoyed the variety of booths and food.
“Music and food, what better two things to bring people together,” said Darel Ferguson, one of the dancers at the pow wow.
This was Ferguson’s first year at this pow wow but he tries to attend and dance at as many as he can.
“I try to dance for myself and the people who can’t… and for the great creator to show my humbleness,” he said.
Ferguson said that the event “promotes other Indian artforms” as well, like jewelry and bead work.
The event had a variety of booths set up including ones selling clothing, jewelry and a variety of food.
“(People come) for the fry bread, the vendors, the dancers,” said Pat Bennett, one of the organizes who has participated in the event for 31 years.
“(There’s) good food, good company (and) culture.”
According to Bennett, the pow wow gives an opportunity to share Native American culture with the community and brings people together.
“It’s to share with the community and the community will share with us,” she said. “Pow wows are not just about Native culture, it brings people together to socialize.”
A key member of the pow wow community, Ed Allen, who passed away and his surviving wife, Sarah, were honored at the pow wow. Many people who knew Allen shook Sarah’s hand and hugged her while one of the drum circles performed.
The pow wow was held at Yuba-sutter Fairgrounds on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. It was hosted by the Marysville Joint Unified School District’s American Indian Education Program.